G. Kishan Reddy Announces Auction of 30 Coal Blocks in 12th Round
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Synopsis
Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, announced that 30 coal blocks will be auctioned in the 12th round, highlighting the importance of green coal technologies and the role of the private sector in boosting domestic coal production while reducing imports.
Key Takeaways
- 30 coal blocks to be auctioned in the 12th round.
- Focus on green coal technologies.
- Government aims for 1,000 million tonnes of coal production this year.
- Coal contributes over 70% to electricity generation.
- Private sector involvement vital for net-zero emissions by 2070.
Mumbai, Feb 28 (NationPress) Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy stated on Friday that the coal industry is integral to India's energy future, underscoring the importance of green coal technologies and collaborative efforts, particularly from the private sector, to decrease imports and boost domestic coal production.
During the investment opportunities roadshow and commercial coal mine auctions held here, the minister revealed that 30 coal blocks will be made available for auction in the upcoming 12th round.
“With Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his office closely observing the developments, we are accelerating coal production. The government is implementing transformative reforms that have resulted in a notable increase in domestic coal production, significantly cutting our reliance on imports. The improvements are evident,” he noted.
Currently, coal production is at 937 million tonnes and is projected to reach 1,000 million tonnes this year.
Minister Reddy highlighted the government's endeavors to close the demand-supply gap and guarantee uninterrupted coal availability for both captive and commercial consumers. He reiterated that coal is the backbone of India's energy framework, accounting for over 70 percent of electricity generation.
He also discussed vital reforms aimed at attracting private investment in commercial coal mining, enhancing the ease of doing business, and adopting advanced technologies like automation and digital monitoring to optimize mining operations while minimizing environmental impact.
The minister remarked: “As we strive for net-zero emissions by 2070, the coal sector bears significant responsibility. Involvement from the private sector is essential for driving green initiatives and embracing technologies such as coal gasification.
“Our public sector undertakings will also engage in projects involving solar, wind, pumped hydro, and nuclear energy,” he added.
He mentioned that the government is advocating for coal gasification and that the bidding process for the first such project will commence soon.
Coal Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt stated: “The government is prioritizing clean coal and alternative technologies while advocating for stronger policies.”
As India aspires to become the world’s third-largest economy and aims for Viksit Bharat 2047, the minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to community welfare, emphasizing mine safety, rehabilitation, and skill development initiatives.
Stressing the importance of sustainability, he highlighted the socio-economic upliftment of coal-dependent communities, and emphasized that worker safety is paramount, urging coal companies to adopt best safety practices and environmentally friendly mining methods to ensure ecological conservation and long-term stability in the sector.
